Be honest. If asked to ponder the career of Ben Stiller, what would come to mind? Night at the Museum that wasn't bad enough the first time, they had to make a sequel? Or maybe the highly anticipated third installment of Meet the Parents (please insert sarcasm). So just when you thought you would no longer waste time or money on a Ben Stiller flick, along comes Greenberg. Sure, his role in The Royal Tenenbaums was note-worthy but Greenberg has awakened in me a new found respect for Mr. Stiller.
Maybe it's the psychology nerd in me, but I felt Roger Greenberg's pain. I wanted to reach into the screen, grab him and have him talk to me for 50-55 minutes once per week for a ridiculous fee. He is the modern-day, much more bearable version of the narcissistic, misanthropic Woody Allen character. Living with regret and fear, he is his own worst enemy. And now after time in a mental hospital, he gets to house sit for his brother in sunny Los Angeles. Cue Greta Gerwig as Florence. Her brutally honest confidence mixed with her tangible insecurity makes her lovable.
Greenberg and Florence are broken beings. Florence means well, but is a bit too eager and just can't seem to get it right. And Greenberg is a man you probably would not want for a friend. But Gerwig and Stiller not only make these characters work, they make you keep watching and wanting more. Along with the impressive performances of Gerwig and Stiller, Rhys Ifans hits the nail on the head by becoming a character who leaves a place in your heart.
Overall, Greenberg is definitely worth the $10 (depending on where you live) of your hard-earned money and 147 minutes of your time. If you don't believe me, go see for yourself.
